Leading the Way: BPA’s Efforts to Accelerate Energy Efficiency in the Northwest

Kevin Cooney and Jane Pater, Summit Blue Consulting, LLC
Karen Meadows, Bonneville Power Authority

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Abstract

Traditionally, the Pacific Northwest minimized greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from its power sector through the strength of the federal hydropower system. Soon, however, growing electricity demand will exceed the capacity of the existing system, and supply-side alternatives are facing restrictions and will increase the system's overall GHG output. Some mayors in the region, including those in Seattle, Boise, Portland, and Billings, signed the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, committing their cities to meet or exceed Kyoto Protocol emissions reduction targets. Increases in GHG emissions from electric generation will impede their ability to meet such targets.

Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), the region's largest wholesale power provider, is seeking to meet a greater portion of load growth through energy efficiency. Bonneville has embarked on a significant effort to re-invigorate and expand its efficiency programs, which rely on regional utilities to reach end-users. Changes undertaken include significant revisions to program rules, which have inhibited some utilities from taking full advantage of Bonneville's existing programs. In addition, strengthening the current program and market support infrastructure provided to the region will facilitate more robust resource acquisition programs.

This paper focuses on Bonneville's accelerated energy efficiency efforts, including the financial incentives designed to promote efficiency. In the face of new market realities, Bonneville is working to overcome preconceived notions about what is and isn't possible for a wholesale provider. Special attention is paid to Bonneville's efforts to respond to identified barriers in existing programs and creating operational and attitudinal shifts required to accelerate conservation efforts regionally.